Meyer Lemon Thumbprint Cookies
Highlighted under: Dreamy Dessert Lab
Delightful and zesty, these Meyer Lemon Thumbprint Cookies are perfect for any occasion.
These Meyer Lemon Thumbprint Cookies are a family favorite, combining the sweetness of buttery cookies with the bright and refreshing flavor of Meyer lemons. Perfect for tea time or as a delightful treat, these cookies are sure to impress!
Why You'll Love These Cookies
- Zesty flavor from fresh Meyer lemons
- Soft and buttery texture with a delightful jam center
- Perfect for gifting or sharing with friends
Perfectly Zesty Flavors
Meyer lemons are a delightful cross between a lemon and a mandarin orange, offering a unique sweetness that brightens up any dessert. Their fragrant zest and tangy juice are the stars of these thumbprint cookies, infusing them with a refreshing burst of flavor. Each bite delivers a perfect balance of zest and sweetness that is simply irresistible.
Using fresh Meyer lemons elevates these cookies to a new level, making them a standout treat for any gathering. Whether you're hosting a brunch, a holiday party, or simply enjoying a quiet afternoon with tea, these cookies will impress your guests and family alike.
Soft and Buttery Texture
The combination of softened butter and powdered sugar creates a luxuriously soft and melt-in-your-mouth cookie that pairs beautifully with the creamy lemon curd. Each cookie is carefully crafted to achieve a tender crumb, ensuring that they are not only delicious but also a joy to eat.
The thumbprint indentation serves a dual purpose: it not only adds a charming touch but also holds a generous dollop of Meyer lemon curd. This gooey center complements the buttery cookie perfectly, making every bite a delightful experience. You'll find yourself reaching for seconds!
A Great Gift Idea
These Meyer Lemon Thumbprint Cookies are not just a treat for yourself; they also make a wonderful gift for friends and loved ones. Their vibrant color and delightful flavor make them a thoughtful addition to any gift basket. Imagine the joy on someone's face when they receive a batch of these homemade cookies!
Wrap them in a decorative box or tin, add a personal note, and you've created a heartfelt gift that showcases your baking skills. They're perfect for holidays, birthdays, or just to show someone you care. Sharing these cookies is a lovely way to spread joy and brighten someone's day.
Ingredients
Ingredients
For the Cookies
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2/3 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon Meyer lemon zest
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
For the Filling
- 1/2 cup Meyer lemon curd
Make sure to use fresh Meyer lemons for the best flavor!
Instructions
Instructions
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Make the Cookie Dough
In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy. Add in the vanilla extract and Meyer lemon zest, mixing until combined.
Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until a dough forms.
Shape the Cookies
Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet. Use your thumb to make an indentation in the center of each ball.
Fill with Lemon Curd
Spoon a small amount of Meyer lemon curd into each indentation.
Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Let cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Enjoy your cookies with a cup of tea or coffee!
Tips for the Best Cookies
To achieve the best texture for your Meyer Lemon Thumbprint Cookies, be sure to use softened, room-temperature butter. This allows for better incorporation of air, resulting in a lighter cookie. Avoid using melted butter, as it can lead to a dense texture.
When measuring your flour, spoon it into the measuring cup and level it off with a knife. This technique ensures that you don’t pack the flour too tightly, which could result in dry cookies. Remember, precision is key in baking!
Storage and Freshness
Store your Meyer Lemon Thumbprint Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want to keep them fresh for longer, consider freezing them. Place the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze, then transfer them to a freezer-safe container once solid. They can last up to three months in the freezer.
When you're ready to enjoy them, simply thaw the cookies at room temperature for a few hours. If desired, you can warm them slightly in the oven for a freshly-baked taste.
Variations to Try
Feel free to experiment with different fillings for your thumbprint cookies. While Meyer lemon curd is a classic choice, you can also try raspberry, strawberry, or even chocolate ganache for a delightful twist. Each variation brings its own unique flavor profile, ensuring you never get bored with this recipe.
For an added crunch, consider rolling the cookie dough balls in finely chopped nuts or coconut before baking. This will create an extra layer of texture and flavor that complements the softness of the cookie beautifully.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use regular lemons instead of Meyer lemons?
Yes, but the flavor will be more tart, so you may want to adjust the sugar in the recipe.
→ How should I store these cookies?
Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
→ Can I freeze these cookies?
Yes, you can freeze the baked cookies for up to three months. Just thaw them at room temperature before serving.
→ What can I use instead of lemon curd?
You can substitute with any fruit jam or preserve of your choice.
Meyer Lemon Thumbprint Cookies
Delightful and zesty, these Meyer Lemon Thumbprint Cookies are perfect for any occasion.
Created by: Emma
Recipe Type: Dreamy Dessert Lab
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 24 cookies
What You'll Need
For the Cookies
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2/3 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon Meyer lemon zest
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
For the Filling
- 1/2 cup Meyer lemon curd
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy. Add in the vanilla extract and Meyer lemon zest, mixing until combined.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until a dough forms.
Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet. Use your thumb to make an indentation in the center of each ball.
Spoon a small amount of Meyer lemon curd into each indentation.
Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Let cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 120 kcal
- Total Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
- Sodium: 40mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 10g
- Dietary Fiber: 0g
- Sugars: 5g
- Protein: 1g